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Participants in the 2009 Michigan State University Winery Development Conference are starting 16 Michigan wineries and creating 64 new jobs.

When Michigan State
University staff andpartners began planning a comprehensive conference for aspiring winery owners,
they thought one new winery would constitute a success. The 2009 conference, now two years hence, has
aided the 87 participants toward the start-up of three wineries, with another 13 in
process, according to a follow-up survey of 33 percent of participants.

Skill and knowledge change, along with further
engagement and learning, helped conference participants turn their business
ideas into reality. Those actively involved in starting a winery have developed
business plans, established legal business structures and made equipment and
real estate purchases. They have also connected with business resource people
such as consultants, lenders and successful winery operators who have acted as
mentors.

By 2013 these winery owners will create 64
jobs and invest $4.375 million. This level of activity is expected to generate
121 new jobs and $9.5 million in total economic impact.

May 8, 2017 | Joanne Davidhizar | Kellogg Community College joins Glen Oaks Community College and Southwestern Michigan College as partners with Michigan State University (MSU) Institute of Agricultural Technology.